Configurations play a crucial role in any network setting, as even a minor mistake in a single line of code can lead to cascading network failure throughout an entire organization. Moreover, with the increasing intricacy of networks, the risk of unauthorized misconfigurations has emerged as a significant concern, predominantly stemming from human inaccuracies.

To mitigate this issue, the implementation of a network automation tool proves invaluable. Such a tool proficiently handles routine tasks, curbing the necessity for extensive human involvement and subsequently diminishing the occurrences of unsanctioned misconfigurations.

Let's take a look at how ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager, an all-in-one network automation tool, is best suited for your configuration management needs.

Overview:

ManageEngine Network Configuration Manager is a comprehensive network configuration and change management automation tool designed to support multiple vendors and cater to various network devices, like routers, switches, and firewalls. This tool empowers users to exercise full authority over the device configuration management cycle.

In today's intricate configuration management network landscape, Network Configuration Manager offers crucial functionalities that play a pivotal role. Some of its prominent features are:

• Advanced configuration backup
• Real-time change management
• Automation using Configlets
• Compliance management
• Firmware vulnerability management

With these capabilities, Network Configuration Manager proves to be an indispensable asset for efficiently managing network configurations in a multi-vendor environment.

Advanced configuration backup:

Network Configuration Manager provides three distinct methods for making backups, tailored to meet the specific needs and requirements of your organization:

• Manual or instant backup: This option allows you to swiftly create backups for any number of devices with the simple click of a button.
• Scheduled backup: Conveniently schedule backups for later. Network Configuration Manager will automatically execute the backup task without requiring any manual intervention.

  

• Syslog-based automated backup: After enabling change detection on devices, Network Configuration Manager continuously monitors for configuration changes. If any changes are detected, it automatically initiates the backup process.

  

Real-time change management:

Network Configuration Manager provides a range of change management functionalities that ensure the continuous safety and security of your network environment. These capabilities include:

• Real-time change notifications: You can opt to receive immediate alerts for any configuration changes through email, SNMP traps, syslog, or tickets, based on your preference.

  

• Role-based access control: By implementing role-based access control, you can restrict users' access to specific devices and assign them roles. This helps prevent unauthorized configuration changes from being applied.

  

• Configuration comparison (Diff View): With this color-coded differentiation feature, you can easily compare two configurations of the same device or different devices. This allows you to identify and understand the variations between configurations quickly, aiding in troubleshooting and maintaining consistency.

  

• Rollback: Enabling this option ensures that the system automatically rolls back to the previous stable version or a chosen baseline version as soon as a change is detected on the device.

  

Automation with Configlets:

Network Configuration Manager leverages Configlets, which are script templates designed to streamline and expedite mundane and labor-intensive manual tasks within minutes. These Configlets can also play a vital role in fortifying your network environment's security by enabling you to implement security scripts when necessary. Moreover, you have the flexibility to schedule the execution of Configlets, ensuring that your network environment achieves optimal efficiency.

Compliance management:

Network Configuration Manager enables you to effortlessly handle industry-grade compliance policies, preventing you from incurring substantial penalties. Some of the predefined policies already incorporated in Network Configuration Manager include:

• PCI
• SOX
• HIPAA
• Cisco IOS

Additionally, you have the flexibility to craft custom policies from the ground up to align precisely with your specific requirements. This ensures that your network adheres to the necessary standards and regulations, safeguarding your organization from potential financial liabilities. Also, you can get real-time, dedicated compliance reports.

Firmware vulnerability management:

Firmware plays a critical role in safeguarding your environment against external threats. Network Configuration Manager offers comprehensive firmware management, regularly updating with data from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) on a daily basis. It provides a list of devices along with their CVE ID, base score, severity level, and links to patch fixes. Even for closed networks, the option exists to upload a DAT file to synchronize with the NIST's vulnerability database, ensuring that your devices stay protected with the latest firmware updates.

So, equipped with these cutting-edge features meticulously tailored to cater to your organization's network management requirements, you can effortlessly and proactively manage potential unforeseen network disruptions and gain enhanced insights into the specifics of network activities, including the who, what, and when of activities within your network environment.

Interested in experiencing the full spectrum of this comprehensive network solution? Try a complimentary 30-day trial by downloading it from this link.

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